Trump Proclaims Columbus Day to Restore Explorer’s Legacy
President Trump has officially declared Monday as Columbus Day, aiming to restore what he refers to as the explorer’s extraordinary legacy. This proclamation was made during a Cabinet meeting at the White House.
Trump’s Proclamation and Its Context
In a social media post from April, Trump expressed the desire to bring Columbus Day “back from the ashes.” He intends to reinstate the holiday under its traditional rules, dates, and locations as observed over the decades. The proclamation emphasizes Columbus’ faith, courage, perseverance, and virtue.
However, in recent years, many Americans have shifted their focus to Indigenous Peoples Day. This movement recognizes Native lands and honors the contributions of Indigenous peoples to the nation. Scholars, such as Kerri Malloy, a professor of Native American and Indigenous Studies at San José State University, have critiqued Columbus and argued that his arrival in the Americas led to the genocide of Indigenous populations.
Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples Day
- Columbus Day is one of 12 federally recognized holidays in 2025.
- 30 states and 3 U.S. territories recognize Columbus Day.
- 17 states and D.C. commemorate Indigenous Peoples Day.
Joe Biden made history in 2021 by being the first president to officially recognize Indigenous Peoples Day alongside Columbus Day. This recognition has further fueled the ongoing debate about the legacy of Columbus.
A Complex Legacy
Christopher Columbus, born in Italy in 1451, set sail in 1492 under the Spanish monarchy, believing he would reach Asia. Instead, he landed in present-day Bahamas and made several voyages through South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Despite his journeys, he never reached what is now the continental United States.
The history behind Columbus Day dates back to 1892 when President Benjamin Harrison first commemorated it in response to anti-Italian sentiment in the United States. President Franklin Roosevelt later established it as a federal holiday in 1934.
Mixed Reactions to the Proclamation
After signing the proclamation, Trump stated, “We’re back, Italians. We love the Italians.” His remarks were praised by some, including Republican Representatives Elise Stefanik and Mike Lawler, both of whom expressed their support on social media.
Yet, many voices remain critical. Critics argue that the proclamation paints an overly simplistic narrative of discovery and exploration while neglecting the darker aspects of exploitation. Matthew Fletcher, a legal scholar, highlighted that the day’s name, whether Columbus Day or Indigenous Peoples Day, will not deter celebrations among Indigenous communities.
What This Means Going Forward
As the debate surrounding Columbus Day continues, the push for recognition of Indigenous Peoples Day remains strong. Many communities actively honor their heritage regardless of the holiday’s name. The complexity of this issue reflects broader themes of history, culture, and identity in America.
